EU referendum: Almost half of British households are worried about income impact of Brexit vote

Almost half of British households are worried about the impact the European Union referendum will have on their personal finances, a survey released on Wednesday (7 June) showed.

According to the quarterly Disposable Income Index, compiled by Scottish Friendly and the Social Market Foundation, 45.2% of British households are worried about how leaving the EU would affect their family financially, while 51.6% are concerned about the outcome of the vote.

Monthly disposable income rose from £905 (€1,156, $1,313) to £1,000 in the last quarter on the back of ongoing low inflation, the introduction of the National Living Wage, and moderate pay growth across the private sector but that did not quell Britons' concerns over the 23 June vote.

40.3% of the 2,000 respondents are worried a Brexit may cause prices to rise. 28.6% fear it might lead to job losses. 19.1% are concerned it might result in changes in labour market protections like paid holiday or maternity leave.

"Uncertainty caused by the forthcoming EU referendum is also leaving many UK families feeling concerned," said Calum Bennie, savings expert at Scottish Friendly.

"The possibility that prices may rise that jobs could be lost or that rules around maternity leave or paid holiday may change are clearly important points affecting many people considering the impact of the EU referendum on the pound in their pocket."

The survey also found those aged 35-44 years have only £825 left each month after buying daily necessities, compared to the £831 available to 25-34-year-olds. The national median is £1,000.

Meanwhile, those in work continue to find themselves with less disposable income than those in retirement, with the average retiree having a higher monthly disposable income of £1,585.

"Worries persist about preparedness for unexpected bills and debt," Bennie added. "Not enough households are in a position to save at the end of the month and that is a concern. With financial security still seemingly very out of reach for many households, policy makers and businesses alike should take heed of the persistent insecure sentiment in the UK."